General Science was first introduced to Tibetan monasteries based in India, Nepal & Bhutan in 2001, through the Science meets Dharma" (SmD) Project by Rikon Tibet Institute, under the patronage of His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama, who has consistently advocated the relevance and importance of Science knowledge alongside Buddhist philosophical studies.
In the project’s second phase, Science was formally introduced in the monastery’s curriculum in 2012. In 2013 “Sera Jey Science Centre”, was established and inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama. Regular classes in Biology, Physics & Chemistry in theory & practical’s are conducted with periodic workshops, seminars, conferences & exhibitions.
Core Purpose:
For a better administering of the science curriculum at our monastic institute, a viable infrastructure facility has become the most essential factor. A Meditation Study Lab and Meditation Hall would provide the right conditions for scientific studies & research on Meditation.
The monastery has been pursuing the development of science discipline in the curriculum with much commitment and importance, as envisioned by His Holiness The Dalai Lama.
Benefits:
With the proposed infrastructure facility, respective science theoretical and experiment classes can be suitably conducted; seminars, workshops and conferences can be organized more effectively. Overall tangible development of the science discipline and department can be achieved. More students will be interested to learn Science and enroll in the discipline. The knowledge resource of graduating monk scholars could be evidently enhanced, as the additional knowledge of science will form a formidable asset to one’s overall faculty and understanding of concepts.
Besides, the project will be a humble fulfillment to His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s determined vision and advocacy in the study of Science at Tibetan monasteries.
Plan Description:
1) Science Classroom (3 big & 3 small) 6
2) Teacher's Room 1
3) Store Room 1
4) Science Laboratories (Biology/Physics/Chemistry) 3
5) Computer Lab. 1
6) Science Centre ‘Office’ 1
7) Science Library & Research Room 2
8) Science Gallery Room 1
9) Meditation Study Lab (sound proofed) 1
10) Meditation Hall 1
11) Auditorium / Conference Hall 1
12) Guest Room (for western scientists/researchers) 10
13) Kitchen & Dinning Hall
Cost Estimate:
The overall construction cost estimate: INR 96,014,000.00
(Ninety-six million & fourteen thousand)
Project Status:
The project’s construction work was commenced in 2020 and was successfully completed in January 2024. The center was inaugurated on 14 January 2024.